An anti-caries evolution

on 8 April 2011

Stannous fluoride, a widely recognised anti-caries agent used in Crest toothpaste, introduced by Procter & Gamble as the first clinically proven anti-caries fluoride toothpaste in 1955, is now back in a newly stabilised form in Oral-B Pro-Expert toothpaste.

Although widely recognised for its anti-caries properties, stannous fluoride can be unstable in water-solution.

However, the evolution of an innovative formulation with low water and polyphosphate has enabled a doubly effective combination.

Stabilised stannous fluoride works in two ways to deliver its anti-caries benefits.

Firstly, fluoride has the ability to inhibit demineralisation and enhance remineralisation of tooth enamel.

However, the advantages do not stop there, since stabilised stannous fluoride is also an effective anti-microbial agent delivering long-lasting anti-bacterial benefits especially against caries-causing microbes such as Strep mutans.

Laboratory and clinical studies have confirmed its ability to inhibit bacterial growth, reduce the ability of bacteria to adhere to tooth and gum surfaces and to affect their metabolic processes.

Additionally, the American Dental Association (ADA) Council on Scientific Affairs has recognised stannous fluoride as meeting its ADA Seal of Acceptance requirements for anti-caries efficacy.